Befürworter

Befürworter is a German noun meaning a person who advocates for or supports a proposal, policy, idea, or movement. The term signals active endorsement and public backing, typically in political, legal, or public-policy contexts. In English, Befürworter is often translated as proponent or advocate, and less commonly as supporter.

Usage and forms: The singular is der Befürworter; the feminine form is die Befürworterin, and the plural die Befürworter (masculine) with die Befürworterinnen for female. In inclusive language, Befürworterinnen und Befürworter are commonly used. Befürworter are contrasted with Gegner (opponents) or Kritiker (critics).

Nuance and context: The term emphasizes advocacy of a specific proposal rather than general support. It is common in debates, policy discussions, and legislative processes, where Befürworter present arguments in favor and defend the merits of the subject.

Related terms include Verfechter (advocate), Unterstützer (supporter), and Befürwortung (endorsement).